It's 2025, and while there's a basic level of internet safety burned into everyone's minds at this point, there are still many dangers for you to stay aware of. As an adult, you can sometimes use common sense to figure out when something smells too good to be true, but it's harder for children to discern when something is likely to be off.
To help safeguard the younger generations against the risks of the online world, EE, a carrier in the UK, has just announced the first smartphone plans marketed towards under-18 users. In addition to that, it has also rolled out new services that prioritize online safety, especially for younger users.
EE's New Under-18 Plans, Called Safer SIMS, Come With Protection Built in
Unless you're incredibly strict, it is generally accepted in these times that children and teenagers will get access to the internet. This often happens through their personal smartphones. And if you're getting a younger person a smartphone, you'll likely need to get them a smartphone plan to pair with that. However, such unfettered access to the internet might have you concerned.
That's understandable, and you're not alone if that's the case. That's why EE, a major UK carrier, has just announced its new Safer SIMs, smartphone plans specifically tailored to the under-18 community. You might have heard of similar plans before.
| Protected Plan | Guided Plan | Trusted Plan | |
| Target Customers | Preteens | Early Teenagers | Older Teenagers |
| Website Content Control | Strict | Moderate | Moderate |
| Unlimited Calls/Texts with Premium Numbers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scam Call Protect | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Data Allowance | 0.5Mbps | 3GB @ 10Mbps | 10GB @ 100Mbps |
All of the plans will come with content controls built in to protect under-18s from the inappropriate content on the internet and relatively limited internet speeds. They will also get access to 150 text services, data gifting, and Stay Connected Data so that they will always be able to remain in touch. The plans will start at a monthly rate of £7 and will be available starting in August.
You Can Discuss Online Safety with EE Experts in Stores
As a parent grappling with the dangers of offering a smartphone to a child, it can sometimes seem like there's no one knowledgeable enough for you to talk to. It's for that exact reason that EE has launched in-store appointments tailored towards parents who need support and guidance on safe smartphone use for children.
Here are some things to keep in mind about these appointments:
- Available in more than 400 EE retail stores across the UK
- Accessible to everyone, even non-EE customers
- Appointments will take place with expert Guides and will last 30 minutes
- The appointment program will launch in August
EE Launches The PHONE Chat Resource for Smartphone Ownership
EE really wants to cover all ground when it comes to internet safety for younger ones, so it has launched The P.H.O.N.E Chat resource. This is a content guide that has been developed in collaboration with Internet Matters, and it makes it easier for parents to have difficult conversations with their children regarding smartphones, online safety, and more. P.H.O.N.E Chat is live, and you can check it out here.
